Building a Session Workflow That Actually Flows | by Melissa Ortendahl
Why a Strong Workflow Matters More Than More Poses
Photography prompts are only as powerful as the workflow they fit into. A good prompt isn't a magic trick - it's part of a bigger rhythm. The best sessions feel fluid and intentional, not like you're ticking off a to-do list of poses. That’s why building a session workflow around carefully chosen photography prompts can completely change how your sessions feel - for both you and your clients.
A clear workflow removes decision fatigue and helps you stay present and in tune with what’s happening in front of your camera. Instead of stopping to figure out your next shot or flipping through a saved Pinterest board mid-session, your prompts are integrated and intentional. It feels seamless - because it is.
Ditch the Cringe: Use Prompts That Support Comfort and Connection
Prompts should never feel forced, cheesy, or performative. We've all cringed at those moments where a prompt clearly pulls someone out of their comfort zone. The goal is to use photo prompts that feel natural and give your clients something to do, say, or feel—not something that makes them suddenly aware of how awkward their hands are.
A good prompt dissolves tension instead of creating it. It helps a parent sink into a moment with their newborn, or gives a couple permission to laugh, be playful, or just breathe. When prompts are chosen with care and woven into the flow of your session, you’re not just taking pictures. You’re documenting connection.
Using Family Photo Pose Ideas to Set the Tone
For family photographers, starting with movement-based or playful family photo pose ideas can set the right tone. Rather than beginning with a posed portrait that asks everyone to be still and smile, start with prompts like "group hug sandwich," or "follow the leader."
These types of photo prompts help the family relax and interact naturally. You’re not asking them to be perfect - you’re giving them something fun to do together. This not only builds trust, it gives you plenty of candid moments to capture in between the "main" shots.
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Grounding Your Sessions with Maternity Photo Poses
Maternity photo poses often get a bad reputation for feeling stiff or overly curated. But with a well-thought-out workflow, you can guide your clients into gentle, grounded movements that feel more like moments and less like instructions.
Consider prompts like "rest both hands on your bump and sway slowly" or "lean into your partner and close your eyes for a few breaths." These types of prompts allow emotion and quiet connection to take the lead, and help your clients feel less like they’re performing and more like they’re being.
Creating Calm with Newborn Photo Prompts
With newborn photo prompts, subtlety and patience are key. These sessions thrive on stillness and softness, and your workflow should reflect that.
Instead of constantly repositioning baby or moving between setups, prompts like "lay baby on parent’s chest and trace their hairline," or "sit quietly while holding baby’s hand with both of yours" encourage your clients to simply be with their baby. These quiet cues are perfect for creating honest, emotive images - without overhandling or overstimulating a newborn.
If you want to develop maternity and newborn sessions with confidence, make sure to read this!
Couple Pose Prompts That Actually Feel Like Them
Not every couple wants to feel like they're posing for the cover of a romance novel. Using couple pose prompts that prioritize interaction over perfection helps bring out personality and comfort.
Think prompts like "walk like you're heading to your favorite bar on a Friday night," or "stand forehead-to-forehead and breathe each other in." These micro-interactions allow room for laughter, vulnerability, and authenticity—not awkward giggles followed by "what do I do with my hands?"
The Real Power of Prompts in Your Workflow
When your session workflow is built with intention and layered with meaningful prompts, you don’t need to scramble, stall, or over-direct. You can pivot between moments, adapt to shifting energy, and keep your clients in a rhythm that feels relaxed and connected.
The magic isn’t in memorizing 50 different pose ideas. It’s in learning how to move with the people in front of you, to lead with empathy, and to pull out the right prompt at the right time. Your prompts shouldn’t break the connection - they should deepen it.
So if you're looking to elevate your sessions without overwhelming your clients (or yourself), start by rethinking your workflow. The best photography prompts are the ones that support emotion, movement, and trust. Build them into a simple, flexible rhythm, and you’ll never need to pull out a shot list again.
If you’re looking for prompts that will help you streamline your session workflow, I’ve created a set of Pocket Prompts for Family, Newborn, Maternity and Couples Sessions. Mark your calendars and grab the set for only $44 when they go live on July 29, 2025!
